PEDIGREE Foundation Announced Opening of its 2021 Grant Cycle
PEDIGREE Foundation has announced the opening of its 2021 grant cycle, which provides funds to US shelters and rescues working to help dogs find loving homes. This year, the Foundation aims to give $1 million to shelters and rescues, including annual grants for programs that increase dog adoption and support for disaster relief, provided on an as-needed basis.
Since its inception in 2008, PEDIGREE Foundation has given more than $9 million through 5,700+ grants, working with organizations that support its missions of ending pet homelessness and helping dogs find their forever homes. Applications for the 2021 grant cycle will be accepted now through May 7, 2021 and can be completed online.
“Our ambition is to end pet homelessness and through our grants, we support organizations that work tirelessly to keep people and pets together through programs such as fostering, transport and matching,” said Kimberly Spina, President of PEDIGREE Foundation’s Board of Directors. “Following a year of unforeseen challenges for rescues and shelters, we are hopeful for a positive year, as we work together to find safe and loving homes for all dogs.”
Key Focus Areas for 2021
For their 2021 annual grants, PEDIGREE Foundation will be prioritizing the following types of programs, which are greatly increasing adoption rates across the animal welfare community:
- Transport programs that support efforts to move dogs from areas of overpopulation to areas where they are more likely to be adopted
- Matching programs that increase the likelihood that shelter dogs will bond with their adopters, including behavior training or other programs to help find the best fit for dogs and potential adopters
- Foster programs that move dogs temporarily into loving homes while they await adoption and increase the likelihood of adoption, thanks to care, socialization, training and reduced stress
Grants Available in 2021
PEDIGREE Foundation’s 2021 grants program includes the following grants. Shelters and rescues can apply for all these opportunities now.
Annual Grants – awarded in the fall
- DOGS RULE Grant ($100,000) – This two-year grant ($50,000 per year) will be awarded to fund a new, creative and innovative initiative that not only helps its own organizations but also could serve as a best-practice model for other shelters and rescues to help increase their dog adoption rates as well.
- Program Development Grants ($5,000 – $15,000) – These grants will support activities that increase dog adoption rates, with a priority on transport, matching and foster programs.
- Shelters and rescues can apply for annual grants here.
Emergency Grants – as needed
- Covid-19 Relief Grants – As in 2020, these grants replace the Foundation’s traditional Operation Grants to help shelters and rescues facing extreme needs in 2021, due to pandemic-related challenges. Covid-19 Relief Grants will be offered on a rolling basis throughout the year. The first group of grants, totaling $50,000, will be awarded in April and May, with application reviews starting immediately. Interested shelters and rescues should apply here.
- Disaster Relief Grants – These grants are available year-round to address natural disasters, puppy mill seizures or hoarding situations. They can be applied for all year long through a separate application process, available here.
Those interested in applying for a 2021 grant are invited to join a webinar on Thursday, March 18 at 1:00 PM CST where representatives from PEDIGREE Foundation will explain the 2021 grant cycle and share tips on how to write a successful grant submission. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the online grant applications in advance and questions are welcomed during the webinar. All applicants must have a current 501(c)(3) tax designation status with shelters or rescues operating in the US to submit an application.
To apply for a 2021 grant, learn more about PEDIGREE Foundation or donate to help us find more forever homes for dogs in need, please visit PEDIGREE Foundation.